On the validity of individual versus conventional radon dose assessment methods

Thirty-four test persons were subject to the ‘conventional’ exposure-dose assessment (CEA) method for radon decay products, based on radon measurements indoors together with recommended dosimetric parameters. The same people wore personal radon meters for the same duration. In addition, their individual physiological respiratory parameters were determined, together with the particular exposure conditions at work, in their homes, and during spare-time (individual exposure assessment, IEA). Underestimation of the individual dose due to radon exposure (up to 270%) as well as overestimation (up to 55%) were observed if the conventional CEA approach was used, taking the IEA-value as reference.